High-risk auto insurance is designed for drivers who are considered a higher risk to insure due to their driving history, age, or other factors. If you’re in the market for high-risk auto insurance, it’s important to find a reputable insurance company that can provide you with the coverage you need.
TOP HIGH-RISK AUTO INSURANCE COMPANIES IN THE USA.
State Farm
State Farm is one of the largest and most well-known insurance companies in the country, and they offer a range of coverage options for high-risk drivers. Their policies include liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, as well as additional coverages like uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. State Farm also offers discounts for safe driving, anti-theft devices, and other safety features.
GEICO
GEICO is another popular insurance company that provides coverage for high-risk drivers. They offer basic liability coverage as well as collision and comprehensive coverage, and they have a range of discounts available to help drivers save money on their insurance premiums. GEICO also offers a mobile app that allows policyholders to manage their policies and file claims from their smartphones.
Progressive
Progressive is known for its innovative approach to insurance, and they offer a range of coverage options for high-risk drivers. Their policies include liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, as well as additional coverages like roadside assistance and rental car reimbursement. Progressive also offers a program called Snapshot that allows safe drivers to earn discounts based on their driving habits.
Allstate
Allstate is a well-established insurance company that provides coverage for high-risk drivers. Their policies include liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, as well as additional coverages like roadside assistance and rental car reimbursement. Allstate also offers a range of discounts for safe driving, anti-theft devices, and other safety features.
Nationwide
Nationwide is another reputable insurance company that provides coverage for high-risk drivers. They offer liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage, as well as additional coverages like uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage and roadside assistance. Nationwide also offers a program called SmartRide that allows safe drivers to earn discounts based on their driving habits.
High-Risk Auto Insurance: Top Choices
| Auto Insurance Provider | Designation | Our Rating |
|---|---|---|
| State Farm | Editor’s Choice | 9.3 |
| USAA | Low Rates for Military | 9.2 |
| Nationwide | Low Rates for Speeding Tickets | 8.7 |
| Geico | Low Rates for Teen Drivers | 9.1 |
| Progressive | Low Rates for DUIs | 8.7 |
| Travelers | Most Coverage Options | 9 |
High-Risk Auto Insurance: Overview
Drivers in the high-risk category may be there for a single reason or due to a combination of many. Potential high-risk factors include:
- Younger and new drivers
- Drivers with a conviction for driving under the influence (DUI)
- Drivers with speeding tickets or other moving violations
- Drivers with multiple at-fault accidents
- Drivers with a reckless driving conviction
- Drivers with lapses in insurance coverage
- Drivers with bad credit scores
These risk factors are largely what the best high-risk auto insurance companies use when setting car premiums, since they may increase the likelihood that a driver will file a claim. People with very few of these factors are considered low-risk drivers by insurers since they have a smaller probability of filing a claim. As a result, they tend to pay lower premiums.
People with more than one of these factors may be considered high-risk drivers. These motorists will almost certainly face higher premiums and may have trouble finding coverage at all.
High-Risk Auto Insurance Cost
*Note: Unless otherwise stated, the rate estimates quoted in this article are for full coverage car insurance. References to “standard” or “average” rates refer to the standardized driver profile of a 35-year-old with a clean driving record and good credit unless otherwise noted.
In most cases, high-risk car insurance will cost substantially more than the average annual auto insurance premium of $1,730. Individual risk factors can add to your premium and compound depending on the specific reason and provider.
The table below shows the average rate estimates for high-risk drivers from various leading providers. These figures are based on the combined estimates for several risk factors: a younger driver with a DUI, a speeding ticket, and multiple accidents.
| Auto Insurance Provider | Average Annual Estimate for High-Risk Drivers |
|---|---|
| State Farm | $2,462 |
| USAA | $2,612 |
| Nationwide | $3,155 |
| Travelers | $3,452 |
| Geico | $3,588 |
| Progressive | $5,114 |
The best high-risk car insurance companies all count infractions and risk factors slightly differently. That means that the provider that offers the cheapest rates for high-risk drivers in one category may not work well for drivers in other groups.
Auto Insurance for DUI
Receiving a driving while intoxicated (DWI) or a DUI conviction is serious enough to earn you criminal penalties in many states. It’s also likely to significantly increase your car insurance premiums. In the table below, you’ll find the lowest average estimates on car insurance for drivers with a DUI.
| Auto Insurance Provider | Average Estimate for DUI |
|---|---|
| State Farm | $2,180 |
| USAA | $2,236 |
| Progressive | $2,328 |
| Travelers | $2,332 |
| Nationwide | $2,867 |
| Geico | $3,376 |
Auto Insurance for Speeding Tickets
The best high-risk auto insurance companies assign different levels of severity to speed tickets based on a driver’s recorded miles per hour over the speed limit. Any speeding ticket or traffic violation will likely raise your rates, but the increase will be higher if you have a more severe infraction. The following table shows some average estimates for drivers with severe speeding infractions.
| Auto Insurance Provider | Average Estimate for Severe Speeding Tickets |
|---|---|
| USAA | $1,413 |
| Nationwide | $1,656 |
| State Farm | $1,794 |
| Travelers | $2,269 |
| Progressive | $2,311 |
| Geico | $2,492 |
Auto Insurance for Multiple Accidents
Depending on your provider and plan, one at-fault accident may not cause your premiums to increase by much. However, multiple car accidents in your driving history will almost always cause your rates to spike. You’ll find average rate estimates for drivers with three accidents on their driving records in the table below.
| Auto Insurance Provider | Average Estimate for Multiple Accidents |
|---|---|
| State Farm | $2,341 |
| USAA | $3,465 |
| Nationwide | $3,974 |
| Travelers | $4,085 |
| Geico | $5,043 |
| Progressive | $7,643 |
Auto Insurance for Teen Drivers
Younger drivers are statistically far more likely to get into collisions. As a result, teen drivers face some of the highest rates on car insurance, even if they’ve got a clean driving record. The table below shows the providers with the most affordable average estimates for teen drivers — in this case, for those aged between 16 and 19.
| Auto Insurance Provider | Average Estimate for Teens |
|---|---|
| USAA | $3,335 |
| Geico | $3,440 |
| State Farm | $3,531 |
| Nationwide | $4,122 |
| Travelers | $5,121 |
| Progressive | $8,175 |
Car Insurance Cost Factors
The categories above aren’t the only ones that factor into your car insurance rates. Insurers also use the following variables to determine the rates they charge:
- Location: Prices differ between states, but also vary within them. Areas with high crime rates or extreme weather conditions will often face higher auto insurance premiums.
- Credit score: In states where it’s legal to do so, insurance companies use your credit history as a factor in your rates. Drivers with poor credit scores are considered much less likely to pay, so insurers charge them higher rates when possible.
- Marital status: Single drivers are statistically more likely to get into accidents and therefore tend to pay more for car insurance.
- Vehicle: The value, condition and mileage of your vehicle as well as several other factors about it can play a role in your premiums.
- Coverage: The type of insurance coverage you have on your plan as well as the limits you set have a major impact on your rates.
- Deductible: You can typically choose where to set your deductible, which refers to your out-of-pocket costs in the event of a covered loss. Generally, your monthly auto insurance rate will be higher if you have a lower deductible.
- Discounts: Just because you have blemishes on your driving record or other risk factors doesn’t mean you can’t save on coverage. Most insurers offer a few car insurance discounts you could qualify for.
High-Risk Auto Insurance Coverage
Those with poor driving records often pay more, but they have access to the same coverage as other drivers. The best high-risk auto insurance companies offer a similar set of coverage plans that most drivers have access to. You’ll also find additional coverage options that can be added to your car insurance policy depending on your provider.
Standard Car Insurance Coverage
Most state minimum requirements include liability coverage, and some states may mandate other or additional coverage types. These standard insurance coverages include:
- Bodily injury liability: Covers medical expenses and lost wages for other parties in an accident you’re found at fault for.
- Property damage liability: Covers the cost of damages to other vehicles and property in an accident for which you are found at fault.
- Personal injury protection (PIP): Covers lost wages and medical bills for you and your party, regardless of who caused an accident.
- Medical payments (MedPay) coverage: Covers medical costs but not lost wages for people in your party, regardless of who the at-fault driver is.
- Uninsured motorist coverage: Covers your party’s medical expenses and property damages if an at-fault driver lacks sufficient coverage.
Additional Coverage Options
The best high-risk auto insurance companies also offer optional coverages related to car ownership. Combining state-required liability and injury protection with the following options gives you what’s known as full-coverage auto insurance:
- Collision coverage: Covers damages to your vehicle and personal property in a covered accident, no matter who’s found to be at fault.
- Comprehensive coverage: Covers damages to your vehicle from sources other than accidents, such as theft, hail or flooding.
Most insurers offer other nonstandard insurance options, such as roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement, and accident forgiveness. These can offer peace of mind and additional support, but they’ll also add to your total cost of coverage.
Best High-Risk Auto Insurance Companies
While State Farm was our top pick overall, your best high-risk car insurance company depends on your specific situation. In addition to varying rates, providers offer different sets of coverage options, benefits, and customer service.
State Farm: Editor’s Choice
Pros of State Farm Auto Insurance
- Competitive rates for many high-risk profiles
- Plenty of discounts available
- Large network of offices and insurance agents
Cons of State Farm Auto Insurance
- Not available in Massachusetts or Rhode Island
- Mixed customer reviews
What We Like About State Farm
The nation’s largest insurer was the 2022 Editor’s Choice in our general insurance study. Due to its consistently low rates for high-risk driver profiles and its wealth of discount opportunities, State Farm is also our top pick for high-risk auto insurance. Those who just received their driver’s licenses and parents with younger drivers in their households can get several discounts designed just for them.
State Farm High-Risk Auto Insurance Estimates
| Risk Factor | State Farm Average Rate Estimate |
|---|---|
| DUI | $2,180 |
| Speeding ticket | $1,794 |
| Multiple accidents | $2,341 |
| Teen drivers | $3,531 |
USAA: Low Rates for Military
Pros of USAA Auto Insurance
- High customer satisfaction scores
- Low rates for drivers in most risk categories
- Discounts for military members and family
Cons of USAA Auto Insurance
- Only available to military members and their families
- Usage-based insurance only available in 34 states
What We Like About USAA
For high-risk drivers who are eligible, USAA is likely one of the cheapest available options. The provider also has some of the highest customer satisfaction ratings in the industry and receives top scores in J.D. Power studies. USAA likely would have earned the top spot if it was available to more than just military members and their families.
USAA High-Risk Auto Insurance Estimates
| Risk Factor | USAA Average Rate Estimate |
|---|---|
| DUI | $2,236 |
| Speeding ticket | $1,413 |
| Multiple accidents | $3,465 |
| Teen drivers | $3,335 |
Nationwide: Low Rates for Speeding Tickets
Pros of Nationwide Auto Insurance
- Strong industry ratings
- Affordable rates for drivers with speeding tickets
- Total loss deductible waiver available
Cons of Nationwide Auto Insurance
- Lower-than-average customer satisfaction score
- More customer complaints than other insurance carriers
What We Like About Nationwide
Our team found Nationwide’s rates for high-risk drivers to be competitive in general. However, the company has some of the cheapest estimates for drivers with severe speeding tickets, making it an especially appealing choice for that group. Nationwide also maintains a stellar reputation with rating organizations like AM Best and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Nationwide High-Risk Auto Insurance Estimates
| Risk Factor | Nationwide Average Rate Estimate |
|---|---|
| DUI | $2,867 |
| Speeding ticket | $1,656 |
| Multiple accidents | $3,974 |
| Teen drivers | $4,122 |
Geico: Low Rates for Teen Drivers
Pros of Geico Auto Insurance
- Highly rated mobile app
- Inexpensive coverage for teen drivers
- Many discounts available
Cons of Geico Auto Insurance
- No gap coverage option
- Average claims ratings
What We Like About Geico
Teen drivers typically face some of the highest premiums in the insurance industry, making it somewhat difficult to find affordable coverage. Geico offers relatively cheap auto insurance for young drivers, however. Combined with a wide selection of discounts, Geico is worth checking out if you have teens or other young drivers on your auto insurance policy.
Geico High-Risk Auto Insurance Estimates
| Risk Factor | Geico Average Rate Estimate |
|---|---|
| DUI | $3,376 |
| Speeding ticket | $2,492 |
| Multiple accidents | $5,043 |
| Teen drivers | $3,440 |
Progressive: Low Rates for DUIs
Pros of Progressive Auto Insurance
- Simple quotes process
- Usage-based insurance and telematics programs are available
- Affordable coverage for drivers with a DUI
Cons of Progressive Auto Insurance
- Higher-than-average rates for some drivers
- Relatively low customer satisfaction score
What We Like About Progressive
Progressive was one of the first companies to specialize in insuring high-risk drivers, beginning in the 1950s. While other companies have entered the market since Progressive still offers competitive rates on auto insurance for drivers with DUIs and severe speeding tickets.
Progressive High-Risk Auto Insurance Estimates
| Risk Factor | Progressive Average Rate Estimate |
|---|---|
| DUI | $2,328 |
| Speeding ticket | $2,311 |
| Multiple accidents | $7,643 |
| Teen drivers | $8,175 |
Travelers: Most Coverage Options
Pros of Travelers Auto Insurance
- Discounts for new drivers
- Accident forgiveness available
- Superior financial strength rating from AM Best
Cons of Travelers Auto Insurance
- Only available in 42 states and Washington, D.C.
- Mixed reviews for customer service
What We Like About Travelers
When it comes to high-risk auto insurance, Travelers doesn’t offer the absolute lowest estimates for a single category. The company does, however, offer among the most affordable estimates for high-risk drivers in many groups. With discounts for students and new drivers available, Travelers is certainly worth a look for most drivers and their households.
Travelers High-Risk Auto Insurance Estimates
| Risk Factor | Travelers Average Rate Estimate |
|---|---|
| DUI | $2,332 |
| Speeding ticket | $2,269 |
| Multiple accidents | $4,085 |
| Teen drivers | $5,121 |
How To Get Cheap High-Risk Auto Insurance
Unfortunately, even the best high-risk car insurance companies will likely charge you high rates if you’re considered a high-risk driver. While there’s little you can do to change your age or driving record, there are some factors that are still within your control as you attempt to find cheap car insurance.
Skip the Add-Ons
Even as a high-risk driver, your state only requires you to carry minimum coverage. Requirements from your lender or leaseholder may force you to purchase additional coverage, but for the most part you’ll only need to meet state requirements.
Removing unnecessary coverage is an easy way to trim your car insurance bill down, so consider which coverages you can skip.
Increase Your Deductible
Raising your auto insurance deductible is another way to instantly reduce your rates. You will, however, have to pay more out of pocket for repairs or a total loss. Be sure to weigh that risk alongside any monthly savings that you might receive.
Complete a Safe Driving Course
Many insurance companies offer a discount for completing an approved safe driving course. Completing one of these courses will reduce your rates and has the added benefit of potentially improving your driving skills and awareness.
Remember, insurance rates are based on risk. If an insurance company gives you a lower rate, it’s because the math suggests that you’re less likely to file a claim. This shows how effective defensive driving courses are at reducing accidents and violations.
Look for Discounts
Being labeled as a higher-risk driver doesn’t preclude you from auto insurance discounts. Most insurers will have at least one or two discounts you can take advantage of. These are some of the most common:
- Autopay: Set up automatic payments
- Multi-policy: Also known as a bundling discount, you can often save by combining your auto policy with other insurance products
- Multi-vehicle: Insure multiple vehicles under the same policy
- Good student: Take advantage of discounts for maintaining good grades in school
- Military: For members of the military and their families
Watch Your Credit Score
California, Hawaii, Maryland, Michigan and Massachusetts have laws preventing insurers from using credit scores as a factor in setting rates. In every other state, your credit score can have a major impact.
Drivers with lower credit scores typically pay higher rates than those with better ones. Practicing good financial habits and learning how to improve your credit score can help you get better rates, even if you have multiple infractions on your driving record.
Try Pay-Per-Mile Insurance
With most car policies, you’ll pay a flat rate for coverage. But these days, the best high-risk auto insurance companies are offering usage-based insurance plans which charge you based on how much you actually drive your vehicle.
If you rarely need to drive or can limit your time behind the wheel, these plans could be a good way to save on high-risk auto insurance. Just keep in mind that if you use your car too often, you’ll end up paying more.
Use a Telematics Program
Most major insurers offer a telematics program that can use data from your phone’s GPS or other device to monitor your driving habits. If you avoid risky behaviors like accelerating too quickly, slamming on your brakes or looking at your phone while driving, you’ll be rewarded with lower rates.
However, these programs can also cause your rates to go up. If you’re caught practicing too many unsafe driving habits, your car insurance could get even more expensive.
Shop Around for Coverage
Getting car insurance quotes from several providers is one of the most important steps in getting cheap coverage from the best high-risk auto insurance companies. As seen from our cost data, the insurer that offers the cheapest rates depends a lot on the motorist.
Even as a high-risk driver, factors other than your driving record or age will come into play. You won’t really know how much an insurance company could charge you until you get a quote. Then, compare rates to find the most affordable car insurance on the market.
Conclusion
If you’re a high-risk driver, finding the right insurance coverage is essential for protecting yourself and your vehicle on the road. While high-risk auto insurance policies may come with higher premiums, there are many reputable insurance companies in the USA that can provide you with the coverage you need at an affordable price. By comparing quotes and finding the right coverage options, you can protect yourself and your vehicle while still managing your overall insurance costs.
High-Risk Auto Insurance: FAQ
Below are some frequently asked questions about the best high-risk auto insurance options.
What makes car insurance high-risk?
Even the best high-risk auto insurance companies see young drivers as potentially problematic and offer them high premiums. According to our data, the average estimate for full coverage car insurance for teens across the U.S. is $5,298 per year or $442 per month.
Who is in the high-risk category for insurance premiums?
Drivers can be in the high-risk category for insurance premiums for a variety of reasons. These include:
Young drivers
Drivers with DUIs
Drivers with multiple traffic violations
Drivers with multiple at-fault accidents
Drivers who let their insurance coverage lapse
Do high-risk vehicles have high insurance premiums?
Some high-risk vehicles can have high insurance premiums compared to other vehicles. An auto insurer may consider a high-powered sports car to carry an increased risk for over-the-limit speeds, for example, and could charge more to cover it.